Katherine Noel Sullivan

Katherine Noel Sullivan (Katie), 66, of South Bend, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2024 surrounded by family. She was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, daughter and loyal friend. She was a professor of Theatre at St. Mary’s College for over thirty years, where she deeply impacted the lives of her students and colleagues as well as those who came to see her musicals and plays. A talented teacher, director, actress, singer, jewelry artist and animal lover, Katie was also a curious and life-long learner on topics great and small. She was a devoted mother and best friend to Rory Sullivan - spending their most cherished hours together in long talks, car rides, vacations and movie binges. Her favorite pastimes revolved around her family and friends - talking for hours, playing cards, sharing stories and hosting gatherings. Selfless and caring, she was dedicated to her family members, helping them through life’s challenges and celebrating their successes. Katie received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre from Eastern Illinois University and her Master’s of Fine Arts Degree from Illinois State University. Before coming to St. Mary’s, Katie taught at community colleges and acted in and directed many theatrical productions in Chicago. Gracious and brave through illness, Katie is survived by her daughter Rory (South Bend), brothers Sean Sullivan (Chicago) and Mike Sullivan (South Bend), sisters Maura Ehlebracht (Denver), Eileen Sullivan (San Francisco), Maggie Sullivan (Dubuque), sister-in-law Carolyn Sullivan (Chicago), niece Erin Ehlebracht (Denver), and nephews Christopher Ehlebracht (Denver), Connor Sullivan (Chicago) and Luke Sullivan (Chicago). She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Gerald E. Sullivan and Barbara A. (Grumley) Sullivan, who raised Katie and her five siblings in Charleston, IL.  In her memory, donations may be made to The Esophageal Cancer Awareness Association, Inc., (ECAA). Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Katie’s life on Friday, March 22, at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend IN 46628, beginning at 4 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 6 p.m.. 

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